EIU launches AI tool to aid decision-making in global markets

Economist Intelligence Unit has introduced Viewpoint AI search & summarisation, a generative artificial intelligence tool designed to help clients navigate the complexities of current geopolitical and macroeconomic conditions. The new offering gives users the ability to interrogate EIU’s proprietary data and research through a plain language interface.

Multinational organisations, financial services companies, and governments have increasingly complex requirements as they seek to respond to global events. EIU’s platform aims to provide tailored insights for strategic decision-making, with the capacity to clarify implications of evolving geopolitical risks and market shifts.

Viewpoint AI search & summarisation allows users to submit queries in natural language and receive responses backed by comprehensive sourcing. The AI tool is designed to help clients efficiently extract relevant information from EIU’s database, which covers over 200 markets, including more than 130 emerging markets. Sourced responses link back to full research reports, offering further context and validation for critical decisions.

The system caters to scenarios ranging from preparing stakeholder briefings to analysing market shifts in meetings or tracking emerging signals in a volatile geopolitical climate. By delivering answers with immediate references, the tool is positioned to support users who must react quickly to global events.

While generative AI solutions are increasingly common in consumer technology, this marks the first customer-facing AI platform integrated across EIU’s business-to-business services. The B2B clients of The Economist Group include some of the world’s largest financial and corporate institutions, as well as government agencies responsible for global capital and policy decisions.

EIU emphasises that verified sourcing and extended research access are key to meeting the information assurance needs of clients. The linked reports and referenced sources are intended to enable users to dig deeper as required, supporting action under high-stakes and time-sensitive conditions.

“This launch represents a significant milestone for The Economist Group, our first integrated GenAI solution delivered directly to EIU clients. It provides immediate value by making it faster and easier for EIU users to find the answers they need. Viewpoint AI search & summarisation is the first in a suite of ambitious developments that we have planned to enhance our user experience, and we are thrilled to be launching it for our customers ahead of 2026,” said Sharon Cooper, Chief Digital Officer, EIU.